Air Canada Express Aircraft Involved in Collision with Fire Truck at LaGuardia Airport, Injuries Reported
Synopsis
A serious incident at LaGuardia Airport occurred when an Air Canada Express CRJ-900 collided with a fire truck during landing, resulting in multiple injuries among both firefighters and passengers. Emergency services are on-site as investigations begin.
Key Takeaways
Collision occurred between Air Canada Express aircraft and fire truck.
Ground stop implemented at LaGuardia Airport.
Multiple injuries reported among firefighters and passengers.
FAA investigating the incident.
Airport may remain closed for an extended period.
New York, March 22 (NationPress) Activities at LaGuardia Airport in New York were halted after an Air Canada Express CRJ-900 plane collided with a fire truck on Runway 4, prompting an emergency response and a total ground stop.
The aircraft, which was arriving from Montreal, reportedly struck the fire vehicle upon landing, according to preliminary reports and flight-tracking information.
The Federal Aviation Administration has confirmed the airport's closure and implemented a ground stop following the incident involving the aircraft and the emergency vehicle.
Audio recordings shared online, along with initial visual reconstructions, indicate that air traffic control had instructed both the flight crew and the ground vehicle to stop just moments prior to the collision.
Unverified reports from the New York Fire Department suggest that at least five firefighters have sustained serious injuries, while over 100 passengers on the aircraft are also reported to have been injured.
Emergency response teams, including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) units, are currently active at the scene.
Initial information suggests multiple injuries among firefighters and passengers, with some individuals described as being in critical condition; however, officials have not yet provided final figures.
In the aftermath of the incident, the FAA issued a ground stop for all incoming and outgoing flights at the airport to facilitate emergency operations and to begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The FAA announcement indicated that the closure was due to an emergency situation, with a high likelihood of an extended shutdown, although specific details were not disclosed. In a separate advisory to pilots, the FAA mentioned that the airport could remain closed until 18:00 GMT.
Despite this, officials have yet to reveal details regarding injuries or the extent of damage incurred.
Frequently Asked Questions
What aircraft was involved in the incident?
An Air Canada Express CRJ-900 aircraft was involved in the collision.
What happened at LaGuardia Airport?
The aircraft collided with a fire truck on Runway 4 during landing, leading to multiple injuries and a ground stop.
How many people were injured?
Initial reports indicate that at least five firefighters and over 100 passengers sustained injuries, with some in critical condition.
What actions have been taken by the FAA?
The FAA has closed the airport and implemented a ground stop for all flights to facilitate emergency operations and investigations.
When is the airport expected to reopen?
The FAA has indicated that the airport may remain closed until 18:00 GMT, but no specific reopening time has been confirmed.
